OAR 581-015-2160: Orthopedic Impairment

(1) Definition of “Orthopedic Impairment”: For early intervention, early childhood special education, and school age special education, “Orthopedic Impairment” means a motor disability that adversely affects an infant or toddler's development or a child’s educational performance. The term includes impairments caused by an anomaly, disease or other conditions (e.g., cerebral palsy, spina bifida, muscular dystrophy or traumatic injury). (2) Comprehensive Evaluation: If a child is suspected of having an orthopedic impairment, a comprehensive evaluation must be conducted for early intervention, early childhood special education, or school age special education services, including the following: (a) Medical examination. Documentation of a medical examination as defined OAR 581-015-2000 indicating a diagnosis of an orthopedic or neuromotor impairment or a description of the motor impairment; (b) Motor assessment. A standardized motor assessment, including the areas of fine motor, gross motor and self-help, when appropriate, by a specialist knowledgeable about orthopedic or neuromotor development; (c) Other: Any additional assessments necessary to determine the impact of the suspected disability: (A) On the child's educational performance for a child age 3 to 21; or (B) On the child's developmental progress for a child age birth to 5; and (d) Any additional evaluations or assessments necessary to identify the child's educational needs. (3) Eligibility Criteria: To be eligible as a child with an orthopedic impairment for early intervention, early childhood special education, or school age special education services, the child must meet all of the following minimum criteria: (a) The child has a motor impairment that results in deficits in the quality, speed or accuracy of movement. These deficits must be documented by a score of two or more standard deviations below the mean in fine motor skills, gross motor skills, or self-help skills, or functional deficits in at least two of these three motor areas; and (b) The child's condition is permanent or is expected to last for more than 60 calendar days. (4) Eligibility Determination: To be eligible for services as a child with an orthopedic impairment for early intervention, early childhood special education, or school age special education services, the eligibility team must also determine that: (a) The child has an orthopedic impairment as defined in this rule; and (b) By reason thereof, the child requires early intervention (OAR 581-015-2780), early childhood special education (OAR 581-015-2795), or school age special education (OAR 581-015-2120) services.